The Ultradrum™ A.R.E. – Advanced Rap Entry
The patented Ultradrum, which lead the asphalt industry, now takes the next leap forward with the introduction Advanced Rap Entry (A.R.E.).
The A.R.E. concept utilizes the gases and convective heat of the combustion zone to preheat and advance the release of internal moisture in the recycle pavement. This advanced release of moisture results in higher production due to a more even and staged release of water vapor in the drying process.
The material process flow starts at the virgin aggregate feed end of the Ultradrum where aggregates are quickly heated to temperature as they approach the burner. While the aggregates approach the combustion zone, the recycled asphalt (having previously been reduced in size) is introduced in the combustion zone, behind the specially designed combustion flighting.
This special flighting allows the RAP material to cascade around the combustion zone absorbing conductive and convective energy. The heat from this action releases internal moisture before it enters the mixer. RAP, virgin aggregate, and baghouse dust combine in the mixing zone, away from the direct radiant zone. Asphalt cement (AC) is then added into a thoroughly dried mixture of primary dust, virgin aggregate, and RAP to form a fully coated and homogenous mix before exiting the drum.
Any hydrocarbons or steam vapors generated from the mixing process are captured by Gencor's patented Volatile Reclaim System and returned to the burner as fuel.
Gencor has demonstrated the effectiveness of the new A.R.E. option with some of the largest asphalt producers in the United States. These plant run applications in excess of 600 tons per hour with as much as 50% recycle (300 tons per hour) of recycled asphalt.
Features & Advantages:
- Patented adjustable 5-way veiling flights for higher efficiency
- Patented A.R.E. combustion flights pre-heat recycle reducing temperature and energy consumption
- Sweeping material inlet flights for even drum loading
- Self-cleaning RAP inlet allows up to 50% RAP
- Larger drum diameter reduces air velocity & dust carry-out
- Friction driven trunnion rolls for lower noise, maintenance, and energy
- Positive volatile reclaim system captures and destroys hydrocarbons
Positive Volatile Capture System
The isolated mixing section is located behind the burner so there is no chance of liquid asphalt coming in contact with the burner flame. This means there is no oxidation of the asphalt, no degradation of the mix, and no asphalt vapors entering the exhaust gas stream. Vapors generated in the mixing section are pulled through the burner by a patented volatile reclaim system and consumed as fuel. There are no odors or blue smoke emissions to pollute the environment.